National portal for victims and survivors of child sexual abuse and exploitation launched

National portal for victims and survivors of child sexual abuse and exploitation launched

West Mercia Police is supporting the national response to child sexual abuse and exploitation (CSEA) through the promotion of a new online portal designed to provide victims and survivors with access to information, guidance and specialist support.

Launched today (Thursday 8 October), the IAmReady.org.uk portal provides victims and survivors with options to request a review of previously closed cases, as well as tailored pathways to specialist advice and guidance based on their individual needs.

The portal has been designed in collaboration with victims and survivors of child sexual abuse and exploitation.

Detective Chief Inspector Paul Drury said: “We know that we have previously let victims and survivors of child sexual abuse and exploitation down and have made a commitment to ensure we continually develop and improve so that learning from past failures leads to real change.”

“We welcome the new I Am Ready portal, which will provide victims and survivors with a tailored pathway and the opportunity to request a review of cases that were previously closed.”

The website supports Operation Beaconport, a national review set up following the publication of Baroness Casey’s audit of group-based child sexual abuse and exploitation last year. Operation Beaconport is reviewing investigations between 1 January 2010 and 31 March 2025 where a decision to no further action was made.

DCI Drury added: “I can confirm that we have reviewed cases which may be suitable for referral, however, out of respect for victims and survivors and to ensure we do not compromise any potential future investigations, we will not confirm specific cases or the number of referrals.”

"Victims and survivors are at the heart of Operation Beaconport. It is essential that they feel listened to, supported and empowered to make informed decisions about what is right for them. I would encourage anyone affected to visit the I Am Ready portal to access information and support that may help them take their next steps."

"For anyone considering reporting an offence for the first time, I would urge them to contact the police directly. Every report will be taken seriously and assessed so that appropriate enquiries can be carried out and support can be offered."

Follow the link to visit the portal: Victims and survivors of non-recent child sexual abuse | IAmReady

More information available here: New website launched to help Victims and Survivors understand review options following a previously closed investigation | The Hydrant Programme